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“I’m not a politician so I’m a little bit apprehensive about what’s ahead of me," said Mr Platt.

"But I've decided to stand as an independent councillor for Kader because I live in the ward and I'd like to help make it a safer, cleaner and hopefully an even nicer place to live.

“I’ve lived in Middlesbrough for nearly 50 years, I’m passionate about the town – not just the football club – and I love the people. This is my home town.

“I honestly think Kader and Middlesbrough would be best looked after by people dedicated to the ward and the town, rather than any national political party.

“I want to make a difference and I’m excited by Andy Preston’s vision for the town. I hope together we can make a real difference.”

Jim Platt, right, with Middlesbrough Mayor candidate Andy Preston

Mr Preston, who announced his candidacy to be Middlesbrough mayor, said: “I’m delighted to be backing Jim as an independent candidate in the forthcoming local elections.

“He’s a man of great standing in the town, he also has fantastic leadership qualities and I think local people will listen and look up to him.

“I’m convinced he’d be a fantastic councillor, he’s passionate about his town but more important his local ward where he has lived for 48 years, and I know he’ll fight for his neighbours.

“It’s fantastic that we have an independent standing as councillor in nearly every ward so the people of Middlesbrough have a fantastic opportunity to kick national politics out of the town and vote in those who’ll focus only on what’s best for Middlesbrough.”